yes, it does. that is why i initially went ahead an built it up.

i ran the "string test" again and the measurements are

left side: 3.4cm -ish
right side: 3.9cm -ish

so clearly the alignment is not perfect. i did some fidgeting with the fender and i found the sweet spot.but i expect after a few potholes or cobble stones that will change

the clearance in front of the brake were better, then i guess it would be less of an issue. but these few mm of misalignment seem to really make a difference. if it proves to be a real trouble, i can go down a tire size to 25mm or ditch the fenders.

thanks for all the help and suggestions.

lesson learned: aligning a frame is a real PITA.